Designing Our Dream Playground
Technology & Design Year 6 Creating spaces for everyone to enjoy
What Makes a GREAT Playground?
Think about playgrounds you've visited What made them fun or boring? Who were they designed for?
Elements of Great Playground Design
Safety first - no one gets hurt Fun for everyone - engaging activities Different equipment for different ages Space to move around safely Accessible for all abilities
Know Your Users
Choose who your playground is for: Younger kids (5-8 years) Older kids (9-12 years) Everyone (mixed ages) Think about their needs and abilities
Playground Equipment Options
{"left":"Slides (various sizes)\nSwings (different types)\nClimbing frames\nMonkey bars\nFlying fox/zipline\nSandpit or sandbox","right":"See-saw/teeter-totter\nSpinning equipment\nBalance beams\nInteractive panels\nSports courts\nQuiet reading nooks"}
Design Thinking Process
Step 1: Choose your target users Step 2: Select at least 4 playground features Step 3: Arrange them thoughtfully Step 4: Label everything clearly Step 5: Be ready to explain your choices
Time to Design!
Draw your playground layout Include at least 4 different features Label each piece of equipment Add safety considerations Think about traffic flow and spacing
Reflection Questions
Why did you choose each piece of equipment? How does your design keep users safe? What makes your playground fun? How does it serve your target users?
Share Your Design
Present your playground to a partner or class Use this sentence starter: 'My playground is for... I included... because...' Listen to others' designs and ideas
What We Learned Today
Good design starts with knowing your users Every feature should have a purpose Safety and fun can work together Labels and explanations make designs clear We can all be designers and problem solvers